Portable computer with multiple display configurations

ABSTRACT

A portable computer that is configurable between a laptop mode (in which the portable computer has a conventional laptop appearance) and an easel mode in which the base of the computer and its display component stand vertically forming an inverted “V.” The portable computer includes a hinge assembly that couples the display component to the base of the computer, and allows the display component to be rotated about an axis along an interface between the display component and the base to configure the portable computer between a closed position, the laptop mode and the easel mode. The portable computer further comprises a scroll wheel and optional navigation buttons.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/041,365 filed Apr. 1, 2008,entitled “PORTABLE COMPUTER WITH MULTIPLE DISPLAY CONFIGURATIONS,” whichis incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of Invention

The present invention relates generally to portable computers and, moreparticularly, to a portable computer that is configurable into differentfunctional and positional modes.

2. Discussion of Related Art

Portable computers, such as laptop computers or notebook computers, havebecome increasingly popular and ubiquitous in the home and workplace.Conventional portable computers most commonly have a “clam-shell”configuration, with a base including the keyboard, various ports,connectors and/or inputs (e.g., for power and connecting peripheraldevices), and the majority of the electrical components (e.g., thecentral processing unit and memory), and a display component pivotablycoupled to the base by a hinge. The display component is movable aboutthe hinge between a closed position, with the display screen positionedadjacent the keyboard, and an open position, with the display screeninclined at a desired viewing angle.

Some portable computers are able to accept user inputs via a touchscreen in addition to via conventional tools, such as a keyboard ormouse. The use of a touch screen to input data is sometimes referred toas operating in “tablet mode” because the computer is being used in amanner similar to a tablet of paper. U.S. Pat. No. 6,771,494 discloses ahybrid tablet-type portable computer that is capable of operating eitheras a normal laptop computer receiving user input via a keyboard (“laptopmode”), or as a tablet computer receiving user input via a touch screen.The '494 patent further discloses that the display component of thecomputer is attached to the base of the computer by hinges that allowthe display to be tilted relative to the base (for laptop mode), and tobe rotated and folded against the base to configure the computer intotablet mode.

Another variation of a portable computer with a moveable display isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,266,236. The '236 patent discloses acomputer including a base, a display member and an arm assembly couplingthe display member to the base. According to the '236 patent, the armassembly allows pivotable movement of the display member between aplurality of positions, including a notebook mode configuration, atablet mode configuration, a presentation mode configuration, and aclosed mode.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Aspects and embodiments of the present invention are directed to aportable computer that is configurable between a laptop mode (in whichthe portable computer has a conventional laptop appearance) and an easelmode in which the base of the computer and its display component standupright forming an inverted “V,” as discussed further below. The displaycomponent is pivotably coupled to the base of the portable computer by ahinge that allows the display component to be rotated or tilted about alongitudinal axis running along an interface between the base and thedisplay component. Unlike the computers discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos.6,266,236 and 6,771,494 above, the portable computer according toembodiments of the invention does not require an arm assembly, normultiple, different hinge assemblies to be configured into the differentmodes. Furthermore, the portable computer according to embodiments ofthe invention is capable of different display modes and differentfunctionality in the different configurations, as discussed below.

Further aspects and embodiments are directed to a portable computerhaving an embedded scroll wheel that can be configured to allow a userto control various features and functionality of the portable computer.For example, as discussed further below the scroll wheel can be used tonavigate among information displayed on the portable computer's displayand/or to alter operating modes of the portable computer, and/or tocontrol features such as volume, display brightness, etc.

According to one embodiment, a portable computer is configurable betweenvarious modes, including a closed mode, a laptop mode, an easel mode, aflat mode and a frame mode. The portable computer may comprise a displaycomponent including a display screen, a base, and a hinge assembly atleast partially housed within the base and configured to pivotablycouple the display component to the base. The display component may berotatable about a longitudinal axis running along an interface betweenthe display component and the base. In the closed mode, the displayscreen may be disposed substantially against the base, and rotating thedisplay component about the longitudinal axis up to approximately 180degrees from the closed mode may configure the portable computer intothe laptop mode. Rotating the display component about the longitudinalaxis beyond approximately 180 degrees axis from the closed mode mayconfigure the portable computer into the easel mode.

In one example of the portable computer, the display component isrotatable about the longitudinal axis up to approximately 320 degreesfrom the closed mode. In another example, the portable computercomprises a display orientation module that displays content on thedisplay screen in one of a plurality of orientations relative to thelongitudinal axis. The orientation of the displayed content may bedependent on the current display mode of the portable computer, or maybe configurable responsive to a user input. The portable computer mayfurther comprise a mode sensor which detects a current display mode ofthe portable computer, and the display orientation module may displaycontent on the display screen in an orientation dependent on the currentdisplay mode detected by the mode sensor. Depending on the hingeassembly used, the longitudinal axis may comprises multiple parallelaxes, and the hinge assembly may be configured to permit rotation of thedisplay component about any of the multiple parallel axes to configurethe portable computer between the plurality of display modes.

Another embodiment is directed to a portable computer comprising a base,a display component rotatably coupled to the base, and means forrotating the display component in a single direction relative to thebase to configure the portable computer between a laptop mode and aneasel mode.

In another embodiment of a portable computer configurable betweenmultiple modes including a laptop mode and an easel mode, the portablecomputer comprises a display component, a base, and a hinge assemblyconfigured to rotatably couple the display component to the base. Thehinge assembly may be configured to permit rotation of the displaycomponent about a single axis to configure the portable computer betweenthe laptop mode and the easel mode. In one example, the single axis is alongitudinal axis running along an interface between the displaycomponent and the base. The portable computer may further comprise ascroll wheel disposed at least partially about the longitudinal axis. Inone example, the display component comprises a display screen, and thescroll wheel is configured to permit a user to manipulate contentdisplayed on the display screen.

Another embodiment is directed to a method of automatically orientingcontent displayed on a portable computer. The method comprises rotatinga display component of the portable computer about a longitudinal axisrunning along an interface between the display component and a base ofthe portable computer, detecting a degree of rotation of the displaycomponent relative to the base, providing a signal representative of thedegree of rotation of the display component, and automaticallyconfiguring an orientation, relative to the longitudinal axis, of thecontent displayed on the portable computer responsive to the signal.

According to another embodiment, a portable computer comprises a baseunit, a display unit including a display screen configured to displaycontent, an orientation sensor which detects an orientation of thedisplay unit relative to the base unit, and a display orientation modulewhich orients the content displayed on the display screen responsive tothe orientation detected by the orientation sensor.

Another embodiment of a portable computer comprises a base, a displaycomponent rotatably coupled to the base such that the display componentand the base are rotatable with respect to one another about alongitudinal axis running along an interface between the displaycomponent and the base, the display component including a displayscreen, and a scroll wheel disposed at least partially within the baseand rotatable about the longitudinal axis, the scroll wheel configuredto permit a user to control at least one of operating parameters of theportable computer and content displayed on the display screen. In oneexample, the scroll wheel is configured to permit the user to adjust avolume of sound produced by the portable computer. In another example,the screen is configured to display at least one of a plurality of modesof content, and the scroll wheel is configured to permit the user toselect a mode of content for display by the portable computer. Theportable computer may further comprise one or more navigation buttonsthat may be used in conjunction with the scroll wheel to control aspectsof the portable computer and displayed content.

According to another embodiment, a portable computer is configurablebetween a plurality of display modes including a laptop mode and aneasel mode, the portable computer comprising a base, a display componentrotatably coupled to the base and including a screen which displayscontent, and a scroll wheel accessible in each of the plurality ofdisplay modes and configured to permit a user to manipulate at least oneof operating parameters of the portable computer and the contentdisplayed on the screen. In one example, the scroll wheel is disposed atleas partially about an axis of rotation of the display componentrelative to the base.

In another embodiment, a portable computer comprises a base, a displaycomponent including a screen configured to display content, a hingeassembly configured to rotatably couple the display component to thebase and to permit rotation of the display component about alongitudinal axis running along an interface between the displaycomponent and the base, and a scroll wheel disposed at least partiallyabout the longitudinal axis.

Still other aspects, embodiments, and advantages of these exemplaryaspects and embodiments, are discussed in detail below. Moreover, it isto be understood that both the foregoing information and the followingdetailed description are merely illustrative examples of various aspectsand embodiments, and are intended to provide an overview or frameworkfor understanding the nature and character of the claimed aspects andembodiments. Any embodiment disclosed herein may be combined with anyother embodiment in any manner consistent with the objects, aims, andneeds disclosed herein, and references to “an embodiment,” “someembodiments,” “an alternate embodiment,” “various embodiments,” “oneembodiment” or the like are not necessarily mutually exclusive and areintended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment may beincluded in at least one embodiment. The appearances of such termsherein are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Theaccompanying drawings are included to provide illustration and a furtherunderstanding of the various aspects and embodiments, and areincorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. Thedrawings, together with the remainder of the specification, serve toexplain principles and operations of the described and claimed aspectsand embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects of at least one embodiment are discussed below withreference to the accompanying figures, which are not intended to bedrawn to scale. Where technical features in the figures, detaileddescription or any claim are followed by references signs, the referencesigns have been included for the sole purpose of increasing theintelligibility of the figures, detailed description, and claims.Accordingly, neither the reference signs nor their absence are intendedto have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim elements. In thefigures, each identical or nearly identical component that isillustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. Forpurposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every figure.The figures are provided for the purposes of illustration andexplanation and are not intended as a definition of the limits of theinvention. In the figures:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of one example of a portable computer,according to aspects of the invention, in a “laptop” configuration;

FIG. 2 is a view of the portable computer of FIG. 1 in the closedposition;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the exterior of the bottom of the portablecomputer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the portable computer of FIG. 1 in theeasel mode;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the portable computer of FIG. 4, illustratingthe adjustable angle of the easel mode;

FIGS. 6A-C are diagrams illustrating different positions of the portablecomputer of FIG. 4 in easel mode;

FIG. 7A is an illustration of a portion of the portable computer of FIG.1 in the laptop mode, illustrating a hinge assembly according to aspectsof the invention;

FIG. 7B is an in illustration of a portion of the portable computer ofFIG. 1 in the easel mode, illustrating the hinge assembly according toaspects of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a diagram of one example of the hinge assembly of FIGS. 7A and7B;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional diagram of a portion of the hinge assemblyof FIG. 8, taken along line 9-9 in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the hinge assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of one example of a portable computer userinterface architecture, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a screen shot illustrating one example of a graphical userinterface, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a screen shot illustrating another example of a graphicaluser interface according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a user adjusting the scroll wheel on aportable computer in the easel mode, according to aspects of theinvention;

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a user pressing the scroll wheel on aportable computer, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a user pressing a navigation button on theportable computer, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 17 is an illustration of an example of the portable computer in thelaptop mode, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 18 is a view of a portion of the portable computer illustrating awireless signal indicator feature, according to aspects of theinvention;

FIG. 19 is a view of a portion of the portable computer in the closedposition, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a plan view of one example of a power adaptor, according toaspects of the invention;

FIG. 21 is a side view of the power adaptor of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22A is another side view of the power adaptor of FIG. 20,illustrating the power cord would around a cord spool, according toaspects of the invention;

FIG. 22B is a plan view of the power adaptor of FIG. 22A

FIG. 23 is an illustration of the portable computer coupled to a dockingstation, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 24 is an illustration of the portable computer showing one exampleof a docking connector, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 24 is an illustration of a hinge assembly coupled to a computerframe, according to aspects of the invention;

FIG. 26 is an illustration of the portable computer configured into a“frame” mode, according to aspects of the invention; and

FIG. 27 is an illustration of the portable computer configured into a“flat” mode, according to aspects of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects and embodiments are directed to a portable computer that isconfigurable between different operating modes, including a laptop mode(in which the portable computer has a conventional laptop appearance), aflat mode, a frame mode, and an easel mode in which the base of thecomputer and its display component stand vertically forming an inverted“V,” as discussed further below. The portable computer is capable ofdifferent display formats and functionality in the different modes, andincludes a graphical user interface that may work seamlessly with thecomputer hardware to provide a unified, comfortable, holistic userexperience. In particular, the portable computer may provide access to awide array of functions, both those traditionally provided by computingdevices and those traditionally provided by other passive informationdevices. For example, the hardware and software, including the graphicaluser interface, of the portable computer may be focused toward providingaccess to entertainment media, such as audio and video (e.g., playingmusic, streaming video, viewing photographs, etc.), email, and internet,while also providing state-of-the-art computer processing capability.

It is to be appreciated that embodiments of the methods and apparatusesdiscussed herein are not limited in application to the details ofconstruction and the arrangement of components set forth in thefollowing description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Themethods and apparatuses are capable of implementation in otherembodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in variousways. Examples of specific implementations are provided herein forillustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Inparticular, acts, elements and features discussed in connection with anyone or more embodiments are not intended to be excluded from a similarrole in any other embodiments. Also, the phraseology and terminologyused herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regardedas limiting. Any references to embodiments or elements or acts of thesystems and methods herein referred to in the singular may also embraceembodiments including a plurality of these elements, and any referencesin plural to any embodiment or element or act herein may also embraceembodiments including only a single element. References in the singularor plural form are not intended to limit the presently disclosed systemsor methods, their components, acts, or elements. The use herein of“including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” andvariations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter andequivalents thereof as well as additional items. References to “or” maybe construed as inclusive so that any terms described using “or” mayindicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is illustrated one example of a portablecomputer according to aspects of the invention. In FIG. 1, the portablecomputer 100 is illustrated in the “laptop” mode, with the displaycomponent 102 inclined at a viewing angle from the base 104. The displaycomponent 102 is pivotably coupled to the base 104 by a hinge assembly(not shown) that allows the display component to be rotated with respectto the base. The hinge assembly may include a single or multiple hinges,which may be any of a variety of hinge types, including, but notlimited, to single-axis hinges, multiple-axis hinges, geared hinges,etc. In one example, the hinge assembly allows the display component 102to be rotated (or tilted) about a longitudinal axis 101 running along aninterface between the display component and the base 104, as illustratedin FIG. 1 and discussed further below. The base 104 includes a keyboard106 and internal electronic components (not shown), such as a centralprocessing unit, memory, and other components necessary to operate theportable computer, as known to those skilled in the art. In someembodiments, the base 104 may also include a touch pad 108 or trackball(not shown) for receiving user commands, as known to those skilled inthe art.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the display component 102 includes a displayscreen 110, and may also include a camera 112, microphone 114, andinfrared receiver 116, as discussed further below. It is to beappreciated that the locations of the camera 112, microphone 114 andinfrared receiver 114 are not limited to the example illustrated in FIG.1, and may be placed in other locations on the display component 102and/or base 104, as would be recognized by those skilled in the art. Thedisplay component 102 may also include cushions 118 that provide softcontact points between the base 104 and the display component 102 whenthe portable computer is closed. In one example, the cushions 118 aremade of rubber. However, it is to be appreciated that the invention isnot so limited, and the cushions 118 may comprise materials other thanrubber, including, for example, a polymer, felt, or other suitablematerials as would be recognized by those skilled in the art.

Referring to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a side view of the portablecomputer 100 of FIG. 1 in the closed configuration. As is the case forconventional clam-shell type portable computers, when the portablecomputer 100 is closed, the display screen is disposed “face down”against the keyboard of the base 104. In the illustrated embodiment, thebase 104 includes a rounded portion 120 that houses the hinge (notshown) that pivotably couples the display component 102 to the base, asdiscussed further below. It is to be appreciated that the roundedportion 120 is not limited to having a round shape, but may instead haveanother shape, which may be dependent on the type of hinge used. In oneembodiment, a power button 122, configured to turn the portable computerON and OFF, may also be provided on the rounded portion 120, asillustrated in FIG. 2. However, it is to be appreciated that theinvention is not so limited, and the power button 122 may be locatedelsewhere on the base 104. In one example, the power button 122 may beslightly recessed relative to the surface of the base 104, so asdecrease the potential for the power button to be accidentally pressed.

An exterior view of the bottom of the base 104 (the underside of theportable computer 100) is illustrated in FIG. 3. As can be seen in FIG.3, in one embodiment, the base 104 includes a plurality of feet 124. Inone example, the feet 124 are made of rubber; however, it is to beappreciated that the invention is not so limited and the feet may bemade of another material, such as, for example, a polymer or felt. Aventilation slit 126 may be provided near an interface between the base104 and the display component 102, as illustrated, or elsewhere as maybe desired, to allow heat to dissipate from the internal electroniccomponents in the base. The base 104 may also include one or morespeakers 128. In one example, the base 104 includes two stereo speakers128, positioned at either side of the base, as illustrated in FIG. 3;however, it is to be appreciated that the portable computer 100 maycomprise more or fewer speakers which may be placed at any location onthe base 104. A scroll wheel 132 may be provided to allow a user tocontrol certain functionality of the portable computer 100, such asnavigating web pages, controlling speaker volume, selecting programs,etc., as discussed further below.

According to one embodiment, the base 104 may comprise a cushioningstrip 130 disposed along an edge of the base 104 opposite to theinterface between the display component 102 and the base, as illustratedin FIG. 3. The cushioning strip 130, which may comprise rubber, apolymer, or another suitable material, may serve as a “foot” when theportable computer is configured into the easel mode, as discussedfurther below. In one embodiment, the display component 102 may beprovided with a similar cushioning strip that may serve as a secondsupporting foot when the portable computer is configured into the easelmode.

Referring to FIG. 4, there is illustrated an example of the portablecomputer 100 configured into the easel mode. To convert the portablecomputer 100 from the laptop mode (or closed position) into the easelmode, the display component 102 may be folded away from the base 104, inthe same direction as to open the computer (i.e., to configure thecomputer from the closed position into the laptop mode) such that thebase 104 and the display component 102 form an inverted “V” shape withthe bottom of the base and the back of the display component faceanother, as illustrated in FIG. 4. In the easel mode, the display screen110 is visible and accessible on one side of the portable computer 100and the keyboard 106 (not shown in FIG. 4) is visible and accessible onthe other side.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the portable computer maycomprise integrated hardware volume controls, including a volume controlbutton 204 and a mute button 206. In one example, the volume controlbutton 204 may be a rocker switch that allows a user to easily increaseor decrease the volume of audio played through the speakers 128. Whenthe user presses the volume control button 204, a volume indicator maytemporarily appear on the display screen 110, to provide a visualindication of the amount by which the volume is being increased ordecreased. Similarly, pressing the mute button 206 may cause a visualindication that the volume is muted to appear on the display screen 110.

According to one embodiment, when the portable computer 100 isconfigured into the easel mode, the visual display on the display screen110 is automatically rotated 180 degrees such that the informationappears “right-way-up,” even through the display screen is upside-downcompared to when the portable computer is in the laptop mode. Thus, auser may simply “flip” the portable computer 100 into the easel mode andimmediately be able to comfortably view information on the displayscreen 110, without having to access display screen controls to adjustthe orientation of the visual display. In one embodiment, the portablecomputer 100 includes an orientation (or mode) sensor that is configuredto detect whether the portable computer is in the laptop mode or theeasel mode, and to adjust the display accordingly. The orientationsensor may be incorporated into the base component 104, for example,underneath the keyboard 106, or into the display component. In oneexample, locating the orientation sensor in the display component 102,rather than the base 104, may provide more robust detection andtherefore, may be presently preferred in some embodiments. Theorientation sensor may be used to determine a precise relativeorientation of the base component 104 with respect to the displaycomponent 102, or vice versa, for example, to determine whether thedevice is in the laptop mode, easel mode, or some point in between thetwo modes. In one example, the orientation sensor includes anaccelerometer whose output is fed to the computer operating system (orto dedicated logic circuitry) which then triggers a display inversion asappropriate.

Accelerometers have been used in portable devices such as cellularphones, media players or computers, as sudden motion sensors, or “dropdetectors,” to protect against hard drive crashes in the event that thedevice is dropped. By contrast, however, the accelerometer in theportable computer according to an embodiment of the invention is notused to detect motion of the overall computer, but rather to detect aconfiguration of the portable computer 100 (e.g., laptop mode or easelmode), particularly, to detect an orientation of the display component102 relative to the base component 104. In one example, information fromthe accelerometer is provided to a display controller in the portablecomputer and used to switch the display between portrait or landscapemode, as is done in some conventional devices.

Referring to FIG. 5, when the portable computer 100 is in the easelmode, the base 104 is disposed at an angle 134 to the display component102. This angle 134 is adjustable, for example, to allow a comfortableviewing angle to the display screen 110 to be maintained for differentpositions of a user 136 and of the portable computer 100, as illustratedin FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C. For example, when the user 136 is further fromthe portable computer, the angle 134a (FIG. 6A) may be made smaller thanthe angle 134b when the user is closer to the portable computer (FIG.6B). As discussed above, in one example, the orientation sensor (notshown) may be used to detect, either approximately or precisely, theangle 134 and to provide the information to the computer operatingsystem.

According to one embodiment, the display component 102 is pivotablycoupled to the base 104 by a hinge that allows the display component tobe moved relative to the base so as to allow the portable computer 100to be configured into the closed position, the laptop mode or the easelmode. As discussed above, in conventional “clamshell” type portablecomputers, the hinges that couple the display component to the basegenerally do not permit more than about 180 degrees of rotation of thedisplay component. Thus, these conventional portable computers can be ina closed position or open, laptop configuration, but cannot beconfigured into an easel mode because the conventional hinges do notpermit sufficient movement of the display component. Similarly, thetablet-type portable computers discussed above have displays that can beopened, rotated and folded such that they lie flat against the keyboardon the base, but cannot be configured into an easel mode. Although, asdiscussed above, U.S. Pat. No. 6,266,236 discloses a computer that isconfigurable into a presentation mode, this requires a complex armassembly. By contrast, the portable computer according to embodiments ofthe present invention may be configured into the easel mode by simplycontinuing to tilt or rotate the display component past the “laptoppositions” until a desired easel angle 134 is reached.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, there is illustrated a portion of theportable computer 100 illustrating a hinge assembly 138 that allows theportable computer to be configured into either the laptop mode (FIG. 7A)or the easel mode (FIG. 7B), according to aspects of the invention.According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly 138 accommodates 0-320degrees of rotation, allowing a minimum angle 134 (see FIG. 5) of 40degrees. However, it is to be appreciated that the hinge assembly 138may allow greater or fewer degrees of rotation, provided only thatsufficient rotation is allowed so as to configure the portable computer100 into either the laptop mode or the easel mode. As discussed above,in one embodiment the portable computer 100 includes an orientationsensor (not shown) that is configured to detect a relative orientationof the display component 102 and the base component 104. In one example,the orientation sensor may be an accelerometer incorporated into thebase component 104, as discussed above. Alternatively, the orientationsensor may be incorporated into the hinge assembly 138 and may be usedto detect movement of the hinge assembly, and to translate that movementinto an information about the relative orientation of the displaycomponent 102 and the base component 104 (for example, a size of theangle 134). It is also to be appreciated that the orientation sensor mayinclude electronic or mechanical components, or a combination thereof.For example, the hinge assembly may be provide with detents that providean indication of the mode of the portable computer.

As discussed above, and also illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, theportable computer may also comprise a scroll wheel 132 that allows auser to adjust, control and/or select various aspects of the portablecomputer (e.g., wireless capability or speaker volume) or itemsdisplayed on the display screen 110. A housing 160 may contain orsupport various mechanical and/or electronic components (not shown) thatare coupled to the scroll wheel 132 and are configured to convertphysical movement of the scroll wheel into electrical signals. Theseelectrical signals may be provided to the central processing unit of theportable computer 100 which processes the electrical signals so as totranslate movement of the scroll wheel into control of a selectedfeature, for example, adjusting the volume of the speaker(s) orselecting a particular item displayed on the display screen, asdiscussed further below.

One embodiment of the hinge assembly 138 is illustrated in FIG. 8. Thehinge assembly includes a bracket 140 rotatably coupled to a housing142. The housing 142 may include a first flange 144 that may be fastenedto an internal frame in the base 104, as illustrated in FIG. 7A. Thefirst flange 144 may include holes 146 to allow the first flange to befastened to the base 104 using fasteners, such as, for example, screws,rivets or bolts. The bracket 140 may include a second flange 148 thatmay be similarly coupled to the display component 102 using fasteners150. In one embodiment, the display screen 110 (see FIG. 1) may be anLCD screen. As known to those skilled in the art, an LCD screengenerally comprises a frame and plastic housing. In one example, thesecond flange 148 may be fastened to either or both of the displayscreen frame and the screen's plastic housing. Referring to FIG. 25,there is illustrated an example of two hinge assemblies 138 coupled tothe display frame 208 of the display component, and to the base frame210 of the base component 104. According to one embodiment, the bracket140 and/or housing 142 may be formed of cast zinc. However, it is to beappreciated that other materials, including other metals, may be used,and the bracket 140 and/or housing 142 may be formed using a procedureother than casting, such as, for example, machining or molding.

Referring again to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the hinge assembly 138 mayalso incorporate an area 152 for locating the power button (FIG. 2, 122)or a navigation control button (FIG. 4, 166), as discussed furtherbelow.

Referring to FIG. 9, there is illustrated a cross-sectional view of aportion of the hinge assembly 138 taken along line A-A in FIG. 8. Asshown in FIG. 9, in one embodiment the hinge assembly 138 comprises ashaft 154 located within the hinge housing 142. The shaft 154 may beheld in position within the hinge housing 142, and rotatably coupled tothe housing, by torsion elements, such as springs 156. In one example,the springs 156 may be formed by stamping; however, it is to beappreciated that other methods of manufacture may be used. In oneexample, the hinge assembly may accommodate about 320 degrees ofrotation, as discussed above, and may provide about 6.5 in-lbs insymmetric torque.

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the hinge assembly of FIGS. 8 and 9. Asshown in FIG. 10, the shaft 154 is coupled to a member 158. This member158 may be integral with or coupled to the bracket 140 which is, inturn, fastened to the display component, as discussed above. Thus, theshaft 154 and springs 156 provide a rotatable coupling between the fixedelements of the hinge assembly, namely, the hinge housing 142 andbracket 140 which are fastened to the base 104 and display component 102of the portable computer. In this manner, the hinge assembly allows thedisplay component 102 to be moved relative to the base 104, therebyallowing the portable computer to be easily and quickly configured intoany of the closed position, laptop mode or easel mode. For example,simply rotating or tilting the display component about the longitudinalaxis 101 (see FIG. 1) up to approximately 180 degrees from the closedmode configures the portable computer into the laptop mode, and rotatingthe display component about the longitudinal axis 101 beyondapproximately 180 degrees axis from the closed mode configures theportable computer into the easel mode.

According to one embodiment, the portable computer may includeintegrated “navigation” hardware that allows a user to easily andcomfortable control various features and functions of the portablecomputer, and to manipulate content displayed on the portable computer.For example, as discussed above, the portable computer 100 may comprisea scroll wheel 132 that allows a user to control, adjust and/or selectvarious functionality of the portable computer. According to anotherembodiment, the scroll wheel 132 may be used to provide “hardwarenavigation” through information, such as menus, icons, etc., displayedon the display screen 110, as discussed further below with reference toFIG. 17. A common display configuration used in conventional computersis a “desktop” view in which multiple icons representing links tovarious programs or applications are displayed over a background image.Navigation is conventionally performed using a mouse, touch pad ortrackball, as known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, theportable computer 100 may display information on the display screen 110in the conventional desktop configuration, and navigation may beperformed using either conventional tools, such as a touchpad 108,trackball (not shown) or peripheral, for example, a mouse, that isconnected to the portable computer 100 via a port 164, or the scrollwheel 132, or a combination thereof. According to another embodiment,the portable computer 100 includes a streamlined graphical userinterface that supports “map” navigation. The map user interfaceprovides a clear overview of the entire computing environment andsearching capability within the environment that may be accessed usingthe scroll wheel 132 and, optionally, one or navigation buttons 166, 168that may be provided on the base 104 of the portable computer 100(button 166) and/or in the keyboard 106 (button 168), illustrated inFIG. 17. In one embodiment, the map mode of navigation is a hierarchicalmode that reduces the number of items to select amongst at any stage ofnavigation, thereby facilitating user access with the scroll wheel 132and, optionally, the navigation button(s) 166, 168. Of course, it is tobe appreciated that the map user interface may also be navigated usingconventional tools, such as a trackball, touchpad, mouse or arrow keys.

Referring to FIG. 11, there is illustrated a block diagram of oneexample of an architecture of the portable computer including a map userinterface. The user interface “home” screen 170 that displays aplurality of modes of content 172. In the illustrated example, the homescreen 170 contains five modes of content 172; however, it is to beappreciated that the home screen may include more or fewer than fivemodes of content and that the modes of content may differ from theexamples discussed below. According to one example, the modes of content172 accessible via the home screen 170 may include “media” 172 a,“connect” 172 b, “web” 172 c, “applications” 172 d, and “channels” 172e. Using the map user interface, information, programs, features andapplications may be grouped into the various modes of content 172. Byselecting any mode of content 172, for example, by using the scrollwheel 132 and/or navigation buttons 166, 168, as discussed furtherbelow, the user may access the content organized within that mode. Forexample, the media mode 172 a may provide access to a medial player toplay, view, search and organize media such as music, video, photos, etc.The connect mode 172 b may provide access to features such as, forexample, email, voice-over-IP, instant messaging, etc., and the web mode172 c may provide access to internet browsing and searching. Theapplication mode 172 d may provide access to, for example, computerapplications or programs, such as word processor, spreadsheet,calculator, etc. In one example, these applications or programs may beprovided as web-based services rather than programs or applicationsresiding on the portable computer 100. The channels mode 172 e mayprovide access to different functionality of the portable computer, withthe different functions or features defined as different channels. Forexample, a channel may include an alarm clock channel in which theportable computer is configured to display a clock and can be programmedto activate an alarm, e.g., a sound, piece of music, etc., at apredetermined time. Another example of a channel may include a “photoframe” channel in which the portable computer may be configured todisplay a pre-selected image or set of images, etc. Another example of achannel is a “television” channel, in which the portable computer isconfigured to stream Internet television. In one example, a user mayconfigure particular Internet television channels (e.g., a news channel,a movie channel, a home and garden channel, etc.) into sub-channelswithin the channels mode of content 172(e). Some or all of the modes ofcontent 172 may access, retrieve and/or store information on theInternet 174.

According to one embodiment, the different modes of content 172 may bedisplayed as a series of bars across the display screen 110, asillustrated in FIG. 12. The following discussion of various features,including hardware navigation through the map user interface may referprimarily to the display configuration illustrated in FIG. 12. However,it is to be appreciated that the invention is not so limited, and themodes of content may be displayed in other configurations, including,for example, a “desktop” and icon configuration, a “dashboard” typedisplay, as illustrated in FIG. 13, or another configuration, as wouldbe recognized by those skilled in the art. Similarly, navigation isdiscussed below primarily with reference to the scroll wheel 132 andnavigation buttons 166, 168; however, it is to be appreciation thatnavigation may also be accomplished using any of the conventional toolsdiscussed above or known to those skilled in the art.

As discussed above, according to one embodiment, the scroll wheel 132and, optionally, the navigation buttons 166, 168 may be used to navigatethe user interface. Referring again to FIG. 12, scrolling the scrollwheel may sequentially highlight different ones of the modes of content172. In one example, the highlighting may be achieved by changing thecolor of the selected mode, and/or by providing a visual indicator, suchas a colored bar 176. A highlighted mode 172 may be selected by pressingthe scroll wheel, thereby bringing up a new “page” or screen on the userinterface corresponding to the selected mode. Once within a selectedmode of content 172, the scroll wheel may similarly be used to selectparticular functions, features or applications within that mode. In oneembodiment, the default action for the scroll wheel 132 may varydepending on whether the portable computer 100 is in the laptop mode orthe easel mode. For example, in easel mode, the default action for thescroll wheel may be channel selection within the channels mode 172(e).

As discussed above, in one embodiment volume control for the speakers128 may be provided by the volume control button 204 and mute button206. Alternatively, according to another embodiment, volume control maybe provided using the scroll wheel 132. Thus, as a user scrolls thescroll wheel 132, as illustrated in FIG. 14 by arrow 161, a volumeindicator may appear on the display screen 110. In one example, thevolume indicator may comprise a transparent, or partially transparent,box 162 containing volume level indicators that may appear directlybelow the scroll wheel 132 on the display screen 110. In this example,as the user scrolls the scroll wheel 132, different volume levels in thevolume box 162 may be successively highlighted, to indicate to the userthat the volume is increasing or decreasing.

In one embodiment, the scroll wheel 132 may be depressible as well asscrollable. Thus, pressing the scroll wheel 132, as illustrated in FIG.15, may allow further control, such as, for example, selecting a channelonto which the user has scrolled, or “play” and “pause” of audio orvideo being played through the portable computer 100.

As discussed above, according to one embodiment, one or more navigationbuttons may be used in conjunction with the scroll wheel. In particular,in one embodiment, the navigation button(s) may be used to change theaction of the scroll wheel. As discussed above, in one example, thedefault action of the scroll wheel is volume control. This action may bechanged by pressing the navigation button 166, as illustrated in FIG.16, for example, from volume control to menu navigation in the userinterface, and vice versa. According to one embodiment, the effect ofpressing the navigation button 166 may vary depending on active the modeof content of the portable computer 100. For example, if a user is inthe media mode using a photo viewing application, pressing thenavigation button 166 may change the action of the scroll wheel 132 frommode navigation to slideshow controls for the photos. When thenavigation button 166 is pressed, an control indicator box (similar tothe volume indicator box 162 discussed above with reference to FIG. 14)may appear containing different actions for the photo slideshow, such as“play,” “next,” “back,” “skip,” “full screen view,” etc., and scrollingthe scroll wheel 132 may allow a user to select one of these actions.Pressing the navigation button 166 again may return the scroll wheelaction to menu navigation, to allow the user to, for example, move to adifferent feature or application within the active mode, or to select adifferent mode.

As can be seen in FIG. 16, the navigation button 166 may be easilyaccessed when the portable computer 100 is in the easel mode, providinga convenient navigation tool for this configuration. A similarnavigation button 168 may be provided on the keyboard 106, asillustrated in FIG. 17. In one example, the functionality of the twonavigation buttons 166, 168 may be the same, with the differentlocations providing easy, comfortable access in the differentconfiguration modes (i.e., laptop or easel) of the portable computer100. Thus, a user may use either navigation button 166 or navigationbutton 168, depending on personal preference. In another example, thetwo navigation buttons may have different functionality. For example,the navigation button 166 may be used to alter the action of the scrollwheel 132, as discussed above, while the navigation button 168 is usedto navigate “up” or “down” a level within the map user interface. Forexample, pressing the navigation button 168 while within a given mode ofcontent may allow the user to “back up” to the home screen; or pressingthe navigation button 168 while within a selected channel (in thechannel mode of the content 172 e) may allow the user to “back-up” tothe channel mode main page.

It is to be appreciated that numerous variations on the functionality ofthe navigation buttons 166, 168 is possible, as would be recognized bythose skilled in the art, and the above examples are given forillustration only and are not intended to be limiting. In addition, anyfunctions described with reference to one navigation button (166 or 168)may be instead (or additionally) implemented with the other navigationbutton. In one example, the function of the navigation buttons 166, 168may vary depending on whether the portable computer 100 is configuredinto the laptop mode or the easel mode. For example, only the navigationbutton 166 may be active in the easel mode, and only the navigationbutton 168 may be active in the laptop mode. Alternatively, bothnavigation buttons 166, 168 may be usable in either the laptop mode orthe easel mode, but their functionality may vary. For example, when theportable computer 100 is in the easel mode, the default action for thenavigation button 166 may be channel selection whereas the defaultaction for the navigation button 168 is to access the “home” screen.Furthermore, the portable computer 100 is not limited to the use of twonavigation buttons and may instead comprise only a single navigationbutton or more than two navigation buttons, any of which may be disposedin the locations described above (e.g., on the rounded portion 120 ofthe base 104 or on the keyboard 106), or in other locations on theportable computer.

As discussed above, according to one embodiment, the function or displaycontent and/or display orientation of the portable computer may varywhen the portable computer is configured from the laptop mode into theeasel mode, or vice versa. For example, as discussed above, when theportable computer 100 is configured into the easel mode, the visualdisplay on the display screen 110 is automatically rotated 180 degreessuch that the information appears “right-way-up,” even through thedisplay screen is upside-down compared to when the portable computer isin the laptop mode. In another example, for at least some activitieswithin at least some modes of content (e.g., viewing a photograph orvideo), when the portable computer 100 is configured into the easelmode, the display may automatically adjust to “full screen view” (i.e.,the displayed image or video is displayed on the full screen size,rather than in a window) to allow for comfortable viewing.

In addition, as discussed above, the ability to configure the portablecomputer 100 into either the laptop mode or the easel mode providesenhanced functionality. For example, when the portable computer 100 isnot being actively used, the user may configure the portable computerinto the easel mode, and program the portable computer to act as adigital photo frame, displaying one or more photos of the user's choice.In the easel mode, the portable computer 100 may occupy a smallerfootprint on a surface than in the laptop or closed modes because thebase 104 and display component 102 are upright, as illustrated in FIGS.4 and 5. In addition, because the portable computer can act as a passiveinformation and/or entertainment device, such as a photo frame or clock,as discussed above, the portable computer may provide a useful functioneven when not being actively used by the user, and may do so (in theeasel mode) without taking up much surface area.

According to another embodiment, the portable computer 100 may furthercomprise a wireless signal indicator 178, as illustrated in FIG. 18. Thewireless signal indicator 178 may indicate the availability and/orstrength of a wireless signal to which the portable computer 100 isconnected, or is attempting to connect to. In one example, the color ofthe wireless signal indicator 178 may provide information regarding thestrength of a detected wireless signal. For example, green may indicatea “good” signal; yellow may indicate a “poor” or “low” signal; and redmay indicate that there is no signal available. In one example, thewireless signal indicator 178 may be ON or active whenever the portablecomputer 100 is powered up. Alternatively, the wireless signal indicator178 may be activated by a user action, for example, by pressing thenavigation button 166 or another button or key provided on the portablecomputer 100, and may remain active for a predetermined time period(e.g., for 2 seconds, 10 seconds, one minute, etc.). As discussed above,the functionality of the navigation button 166 may vary depending on theconfiguration mode of the portable computer 100. In one example, whenthe portable computer 100 is in the closed position, but still poweredup, the default action for the navigation button 166 may be to activatethe wireless signal indicator 178.

According to one embodiment, the portable computer 100 may be providedwith power cord and adapter to allow the portable computer to be pluggedinto a wall supply. Referring to FIG. 19, there is illustrated a view ofa portion of the portable computer 100, showing a power jack 180 towhich the power adaptor can be connected. As discussed above, theportable computer 100 may also include a port 164 to which peripheraldevices, such as mouse, external keyboard, portable flash drive, memorystick, etc. may be connected. In one example, the port 164 is a USBport; however, it is to be appreciated that the port may accommodateprotocols other than USB. In addition, although only one port 164 isillustrated in FIG. 19, the portable computer 100 may comprise multipleports that may accommodate multiple protocols. In one example, theportable computer 100 may also comprise a headphone jack 182. It is tobe appreciated that the location of any or all of the power jack 180,port(s) 164, and headphone jack 182 are not limited to the example shownin FIG. 19, but may be anywhere convenient or desirable on the portablecomputer 100.

Referring to FIG. 20, there is illustrated a top down view one exampleof a power adaptor 184 that may be used with the portable computer 100and connected via the power jack 180. As known to those skilled in theart, the power adaptor 184 comprises a transformer (not shown) thatconverts the wall power to a level acceptable for use by the portablecomputer 100. In one embodiment, the power adaptor 184 comprises asubstantially round body 186 that houses the transformer and othernecessary components. A connector 188 may allow the power adaptor 184 tobe connected to a wall outlet or extension cord. In one example, theconnector 188 may include foldable prongs 190 that can be folded againstthe connector 188 for storage, and folded out for connection, asillustrated in FIG. 21. A cord 192 may be slidably accommodated withinthe body 186, such that the cord may be stored within the body andflexibly extended (up to its maximum length) by a user.

According to one embodiment, the cord 192 may be wound around a cordspool 194 located within, or partially within, the body 186 of the poweradaptor 184. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the cord spool 194 may beconfigured to slide out from the body 186 of the power adaptor 184, suchthat the cord 192 can be wound around the cord spool 194, as illustratedin FIGS. 22A and 22B.

According to another embodiment, the portable computer 100 may beconfigured to connect to a docking station 196, as illustrated in FIG.23. In one embodiment, a connector 198 on the docking station 196 may beconfigured to slidably connect to connectors 200 on the portablecomputer 100, as illustrated in FIG. 23. In one example, the connectors200 may include power and audio connectors, such that the portablecomputer 100 may receive power from the docking station and receiveand/or provide audio signals from/to the docking station, respectively.For example, the docking station may be coupled to external speakers,and the portable computer may provide audio signals to the dockingstation to be played through the external speakers. In another example,the docking station 196 may also be coupled to an audio device (notshown), such as an MP3 player, which may provide audio signals and datato the portable computer 100, for example, to update an audio library onthe portable computer. It is to be appreciated that many othervariations of communication between the portable computer 100 anddevices coupled to the docking station 196 are possible, as would berecognized by those skilled in the art, and such variations are intendedto be within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, numerousvariations on the connector(s) 198, 200 that couple the docking station196 to the portable computer 100 are also possible, as would berecognized by those skilled in the art. For example, the portablecomputer 100 may include a multi-pin connector 202 located on the base104, as illustrated in FIG. 24. Such and other variations are intendedto be within the scope of this disclosure and the above-mentionedexamples are provided for illustration only and are not intended to belimiting.

In addition, it is to be appreciated that although the above discussionrefers primarily to the portable computer 100 being in either the laptopmode or easel mode, other modes or configurations are also possible. Forexample, as discussed above, because the portable computer 100 can beconfigured from the closed position, through the laptop mode into theeasel mode by rotating the display component 102, a number ofconfigurations are possible in between “true” laptop mode and “true”easel mode. In another example, the portable computer 100 may beconfigured into a “frame” mode, as illustrated in FIG. 26, in which theportable computer is placed on a surface 212 with the keyboard 106 “facedown” on the surface 212 and the display 110 facing upward. In the framemode, the display component 102 may be at a similar orientation, andangle 134, with respect to the base component 104 as in the easel mode.However, rather than the base component 104 and display component 102being oriented vertically with respect to the surface 212, as in theeasel mode (in which the portable computer forms an inverted “V” asdiscussed above), in the frame mode, the base component 104 may lie flaton the surface 212, as shown in FIG. 26. In one example, software and/orhardware protection may be provided for the keyboard to prevent keysfrom being pressed (or to prevent the portable computer from respondingto pressed keys) when the portable computer is in the frame mode.

Similarly, referring to FIG. 27, there is illustrated anotherconfiguration of the portable computer 100, referring to as the “flat”mode. In the flat mode, the display component 102 may be rotated (oropened) to approximately 180 degrees with respect to the base component104, such that the base component and display component lay flat on asurface, with the keyboard 106 and display screen 110 exposed, as shownin FIG. 27. Unlike the easel and frame modes, in which the keyboard maybe concealed and not easily accessible, in the flat mode, the keyboardis accessible and usable. In addition, as discussed above, the visualdisplay on the display screen 110 may be automatically rotated toaccommodate comfortable viewing of information by persons located indifferent positions relative to the base component 104 or displaycomponent 102. The visual display on the display screen 110 may also bemanually adjusted by a user using, for example, the keyboard 106, touchpad 108 or mouse (not shown), scroll wheel 132 or navigation buttons(not shown). For example, if a user (located at position A) wishes todisplay information for a person located opposite the user (at positionB), the visual display may be rotated (automatically or manually) 180degrees such that the information appears “right-way-up,” to the personat location B, even through the display screen 110 is upside-down forthat person. Similarly, in another example, the visual display may berotated (automatically or manually) 90 degrees such that the informationappears “right-way-up,” for a person at location C. In one example, auser can “toggle” the visual display among various orientations. Forexample, a user at location A may have the visual display facingthemselves while using the keyboard 106 or other controls to change oraccess information on the display, then toggle the display orientation180 or 90 degrees to display the information for persons at locations Bor C.

In summary, various aspects and embodiments provide a portable computerthat is configurable between different operating modes, including alaptop mode and an easel mode, and that is capable of different displayformats and functionality in the different modes. The ability to viewand operate the portable computer in the different laptop and easelmodes, and to incorporate features and functions such as an alarm clock,digital photograph frame, voice-over-IP, etc, may provide enhancedflexibility and usefulness. In addition, the portable computer mayinclude a graphical user interface that may work seamlessly with thecomputer hardware to provide an enjoyable, holistic user experience.

Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment, it isto be appreciated various alterations, modifications, and improvementswill readily occur to those skilled in the art. For examplefunctionality or features that have been described herein in connectionwith hardware may instead be implemented in software, or vice versa. Forexample, the wireless signal indicator discussed above may instead (orin addition) be provided as a software application. Such alterations,modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of thisdisclosure and are intended to be within the scope of the invention.Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way ofexample only.

What is claimed is:
 1. A portable computer configurable between aplurality of display modes including a laptop mode and an easel modewherein transitions between the plurality of display modes allows anoperator to interact with a single display screen in each of theplurality of display modes, the portable computer comprising: a baseincluding a keyboard; a main display component rotatably coupled to thebase such that the main display component and the base are rotatablewith respect to one another about a longitudinal axis running along aninterface between the main display component and the base to transitionbetween at least the laptop mode and the easel mode, the main displaycomponent including the single display screen, wherein the transitionbetween the laptop mode and the easel mode allows the operator tooperate the portable computer while viewing the single display screen ineach of the plurality of display modes, wherein the laptop mode isconfigured to display to a user on the main display component a firstcontent mode having a first content display orientation with the maindisplay component oriented towards the user and the keyboard oriented toreceive input from the user; the easel mode is configured to display tothe user on the main display component a second content mode having asecond content display orientation with the main display componentoriented towards the user and the keyboard oriented away from the user,wherein the first and second content display orientations are 180degrees relative to each other, and wherein the portable computer isoperable in the easel mode to enable the user to interact with displayedcontent without interacting with the keyboard; and a navigation controldisposed at least partially within the base and rotatable about thelongitudinal axis, the navigation control configured to permit a user tocontrol at least one of operating parameters of the portable computerand content displayed on the single display screen wherein the pluralityof modes includes a frame in which the main display component isoriented towards the operator, the base contacts a substantiallyhorizontal surface, and the keyboard faces the substantially horizontalsurface.
 2. The portable computer of claim 1, where the navigationcontrol includes a scroll wheel configured to permit the user to adjusta volume of sound produced by the portable computer.
 3. The portablecomputer of claim 1, further comprising a first navigation buttondisposed on one of the base and the display component and configured topermit the user to manipulate selected content displayed on the screen.4. The portable computer of claim 3, wherein the screen is configured todisplay at least one of a plurality of modes of content; and wherein thenavigation button is configured to permit the user to select for displayone of the plurality of modes of content.
 5. The portable computer ofclaim 3, further comprising a second navigation button; wherein thefirst navigation button is disposed on a major surface of the base; andwherein the second navigation button is disposed on a minor surface ofthe base.
 6. The portable computer of claim 1, wherein the navigationcontrol includes a scroll wheel configured to permit the user to selecta mode of content for display by the portable computer.
 7. The portablecomputer of claim 1, wherein rotating either the display component orthe base about the longitudinal axis up to approximately 180 degreesfrom a closed mode in which the display screen is disposed substantiallyagainst the base configures the portable computer into the laptop mode;and wherein rotating either the display component or the base about thelongitudinal axis beyond approximately 180 degrees from the closed modeconfigures the portable computer into the easel mode.
 8. The portablecomputer of claim 1, wherein the frame mode is configured to display toa user on the main display component the first content mode having thefirst content display orientation.
 9. The portable computer of claim 1,wherein the portable computer is configured to prevent the portablecomputer from responding to keyboard input when the portable computer isin the frame mode.
 10. A portable computer configurable between aplurality of display modes including a laptop mode and an easel modewherein transitions between the plurality of display modes permit anoperator to interact with a single display screen in each of theplurality of display modes, the portable computer comprising: a baseincluding a keyboard; a main display component rotatably coupled to thebase and including the single display screen which displays content; ahinge assembly disposed at least partially within the base and the maindisplay component that defines an axis of rotation about which both thebase and the main display component are rotatable to transition theportable computer between at least the laptop mode and the easel mode,wherein the transition between the laptop mode and the easel mode allowsthe operator to operate the portable computer while viewing the singledisplay screen in each of the plurality of display modes, wherein thelaptop mode is configured to display to a user on the main displaycomponent a first content mode having a first content displayorientation with the main display component oriented towards the userand the keyboard oriented to receive input from the user; the easel modeis configured to display to the user on the main display component asecond content mode having a second content display orientation with themain display component oriented towards the user and the keyboardoriented away from the user, wherein the first and second contentdisplay orientations are 180 degrees relative to each other, and whereinthe portable computer is operable in the easel mode to enable the userto interact with displayed content without interacting with thekeyboard; and a navigation control accessible in each of the pluralityof display modes and configured to permit a user to manipulate at leastone of operating parameters of the portable computer and the contentdisplayed on the single display screen wherein the plurality of modesincludes a frame mode in which the main display component is orientedtowards the operator, the base contacts a substantially horizontalsurface, and the keyboard faces the substantially horizontal surface.11. The portable computer of claim 10, wherein the navigation controlincludes a scroll wheel disposed at least partially about the axis ofrotation of the display component relative to the base.
 12. The portablecomputer of claim 11, wherein the scroll wheel provides a default actionwhich effects manipulation of the at least one of the operatingparameters of the portable computer, wherein the default action isdefined differently responsive to a display mode of the portablecomputer.
 13. The portable computer of claim 10, further comprising afirst navigation button user-accessible in each of the laptop mode andthe easel mode, and configured to permit the user to manipulate selectedcontent displayed on the screen.
 14. The portable computer of claim 13,wherein the screen is configured to display at least one of a pluralityof modes of content; and wherein the first navigation button isconfigured to permit the user to select for display one of the pluralityof modes of content.
 15. The portable computer of claim 13, furthercomprising a second navigation button that is not user-accessible whenthe portable computer is in the easel mode.
 16. The portable computer ofclaim 10, wherein an operating display mode is selected from theplurality of display modes based on a physical orientation of theportable computer.
 17. The portable computer of claim 10, wherein anoperating display mode is selected from the plurality of display modesin response to operation of the navigation control.
 18. A portablecomputer configurable between a plurality of display modes including alaptop mode and an easel mode wherein transitions between the pluralityof display modes allow an operator to interact with a single displayscreen in each of the plurality of display modes, the portable computercomprising: a base including a keyboard; a main display componentincluding the single display screen configured to display content; ahinge assembly disposed at least partially within the base configured torotatably couple the main display component to the base, the hingeassembly defining a longitudinal axis running along an interface betweenthe display component and the base about which the display component andthe base are rotatable to transition the portable computer between atleast the laptop mode and the easel mode, wherein the transition betweenthe laptop mode and the easel mode allows the operator to operate theportable computer while viewing the single display screen in each of theplurality of display modes, wherein the laptop mode is configured todisplay to a user on the main display component a first content modehaving a first content display orientation with the main displaycomponent oriented towards the user and the keyboard oriented to receiveinput from the user; the easel mode is configured to display to the useron the main display component a second content mode having a secondcontent display orientation with the main display component orientedtowards the user and the keyboard oriented away from the user, whereinthe first and second content display orientations are 180 degreesrelative to each other, and wherein the portable computer is operable inthe easel mode to enable the user to interact with displayed contentwithout interacting with the keyboard; and a navigation control disposedat least partially about the longitudinal axis wherein the plurality ofmodes includes a frame mode in which the main display component isoriented towards the operator, the base contacts a substantiallyhorizontal surface, and the keyboard faces the substantially horizontalsurface.
 19. The portable computer of claim 18, wherein the navigationcontrol includes a scroll wheel configured to permit a user tomanipulate the content displayed on the screen.
 20. The portablecomputer of claim 18, wherein the navigation control includes a scrollwheel configured to permit a user to control a volume of sound played bythe portable computer.
 21. The portable computer of claim 18, whereinthe navigation control includes a scroll wheel disposed at leastpartially within the hinge assembly.
 22. The portable computer of claim18, further comprising at least one navigation button disposed on one ofthe base and the display component.